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The Silent Threat
What Is a Kidney Infection?

Kidney Infection: Symptoms and Treatment

Creator: Prof. Dr. Faysal Gök
Published: 2024-04-24T17:55:04+03:00

The Silent Threat

Our kidneys are vital organs that filter waste from the body and regulate blood pressure. A kidney infection is a serious health condition that threatens the function of these essential organs. It usually develops when a urinary tract infection spreads to the kidneys and, if left untreated, can lead to kidney damage or even kidney failure.

What Is a Kidney Infection?

A kidney infection, medically known as pyelonephritis, is a serious infection that can affect one or both kidneys. It typically occurs when bacteria travel up the urinary tract to the kidneys. The kidneys perform vital functions such as filtering waste from the blood and regulating blood pressure. Infection disrupts these functions and can cause significant damage to the kidneys.

A Life Health Group Touch: The nephrology specialists at A Life Health Group use the latest methods for the diagnosis and treatment of kidney infections. Through comprehensive evaluations and advanced tests, the cause and severity of the infection are determined, and a personalized treatment plan is developed.

Symptoms of Kidney Infection

The symptoms of a kidney infection can vary from person to person, but the most common ones include:

High fever and chills: The body temperature rises as it fights the infection, often causing chills.
Flank pain: The infection causes pain in the kidneys, usually felt in the lower back or sides.
Frequent urination: The infection irritates the bladder, creating a frequent urge to urinate.
Burning sensation during urination: When the urinary tract becomes inflamed, urination may cause burning and pain.
Nausea and vomiting: The infection can trigger nausea and vomiting.
Blood or pus in the urine: As the urinary tract infection progresses, blood or pus may appear in the urine.
Fatigue and weakness: Fighting the infection consumes energy, leading to fatigue and weakness.

A Life Health Group Touch: If you notice any symptoms of a kidney infection, it is important to consult the experienced nephrology specialists at A Life Health Group without delay. Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of complications and promote faster recovery.

Causes of Kidney Infection

The most common cause of kidney infections is the spread of bacteria from the urinary tract to the kidneys. This usually occurs when a bladder infection (cystitis) is left untreated or inadequately treated.

Other factors that can lead to kidney infection include:

Weakened immune system: Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as diabetes or HIV infection, increase the risk of kidney infection.
Urinary tract obstruction: Conditions that block the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or prostate enlargement, can cause urine to flow backward and lead to kidney infection.
Vesicoureteral reflux: A condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney infection.
Catheter use: The use of a urinary catheter increases the risk of bacteria entering the urinary tract, leading to infection.
Sexual intercourse: Bacteria may enter the urinary tract during sexual activity, causing infection.

A Life Health Group Touch: At A Life Health Group, a thorough evaluation is performed to determine the underlying cause of kidney infection. This includes taking the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, and performing tests such as urine analysis, blood tests, and ultrasonography when necessary.

Diagnosis of Kidney Infection

The diagnosis of a kidney infection is made by evaluating the patient’s symptoms, physical examination findings, and laboratory test results.

The diagnostic methods used include:

Urinalysis: The presence of bacteria, white blood cells, and nitrite in the urine suggests infection.
Urine culture: Performed to identify the bacteria causing the infection and to select the most appropriate antibiotic.
Blood test: Used to assess the severity of the infection and the overall condition of the body.
Ultrasonography: Conducted to check for structural abnormalities in the kidneys (such as stones or obstructions).
Computed tomography (CT): Performed when ultrasound results are inconclusive or when complications are suspected.

A Life Health Group Touch: In the advanced laboratories of A Life Health Group, all necessary tests for diagnosing kidney infection are carried out quickly and reliably. Our experienced radiology specialists evaluate imaging results and provide you with detailed information.

Treatment of Kidney Infection

Kidney infection is usually treated with antibiotic medications. The duration of treatment and the type of antibiotic used depend on the severity of the infection, the patient’s overall health condition, and the bacteria causing the infection.

Key points to consider during treatment:

Take antibiotics regularly: It is important to take the antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor for the full duration of the treatment. Stopping early can lead to recurrence of the infection and antibiotic resistance.
Drink plenty of fluids: Adequate fluid intake helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
Use pain relievers: Pain relievers may be used to control pain and fever.
Rest: Resting allows the body to fight the infection more effectively.

A Life Health Group Touch: The infectious disease specialists at A Life Health Group use the most effective and up-to-date antibiotics in the treatment of kidney infections. The treatment plan is personalized according to the patient’s specific needs and monitored through regular follow-ups.

Home Treatment for Kidney Infection

Treatment for a kidney infection usually requires antibiotics and must be carried out under a doctor’s supervision. However, there are some home remedies that can help relieve symptoms and support recovery:

Drink plenty of fluids: Consume plenty of water, herbal teas, and fruit juices to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
Apply a warm compress: Using a hot water bottle or a warm towel can help relieve flank pain.
Get enough rest: Ensure you get adequate rest to help your body fight the infection and recover.
Eat a healthy diet: Strengthen your immune system by consuming foods rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein.
Avoid irritants: Stay away from substances that may irritate the urinary tract, such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.

A Life Health Group Touch: While home remedies may help ease symptoms, it is essential to consult a specialist for proper treatment of kidney infection. A Life Health Group ensures you receive accurate and reliable information about kidney infections and provides you with the most suitable treatment options.

Medications for Kidney Infection

Medications used in the treatment of kidney infection are usually antibiotics. The type of antibiotic prescribed depends on the bacteria causing the infection and the patient’s overall health condition. Commonly used antibiotics include:

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole: A commonly used antibiotic combination for urinary tract infections.
Ciprofloxacin: A broad-spectrum antibiotic effective against many different types of bacteria.
Levofloxacin: An antibiotic with a similar effect to ciprofloxacin.
Amoxicillin-clavulanate: A broad-spectrum antibiotic combination.
Nitrofurantoin: An antibiotic used in the treatment of urinary tract infections.

A Life Health Group Touch: The experienced infectious disease specialists at A Life Health Group prescribe the most effective and up-to-date antibiotics for the treatment of kidney infections. Medication therapy is personalized according to the patient’s specific needs, and possible side effects are closely monitored.

Can Kidney Infections Recur?

Kidney infections can recur, especially if the underlying cause is not treated or if risk factors persist. Recurrent kidney infections increase the risk of kidney damage.

To prevent recurrent kidney infections, it is important to follow these recommendations:

Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking at least 2 liters of water a day helps flush bacteria out of the urinary tract.
Do not hold your urine: Holding urine for long periods creates an environment for bacteria to grow.
Maintain proper toilet hygiene: Wiping from front to back after using the toilet prevents bacteria from entering the urinary tract.
Urinate after sexual intercourse: Urinating after sexual intercourse helps eliminate bacteria.
Wear cotton underwear: Cotton underwear absorbs moisture and prevents bacterial growth.

A Life Health Group Touch: A Life Health Group provides personalized recommendations to prevent the recurrence of kidney infections and monitors the condition through regular check-ups. Our nephrology specialists investigate the causes of recurrent infections and apply appropriate treatment methods.

Kidney Infection and Pregnancy

During pregnancy, a kidney infection can pose risks for both the mother and the baby. Hormonal changes and anatomical alterations in the urinary tract during pregnancy can increase the risk of kidney infection.

The symptoms of kidney infection during pregnancy may be similar to those seen normally. However, it can lead to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and infection in the baby.

A Life Health Group Touch: The obstetrics and gynecology specialists at A Life Health Group take necessary precautions to reduce the risk of kidney infection during pregnancy and prevent possible complications. In case of infection, safe antibiotic treatment is administered for both the mother and the baby.

Kidney Infection and Diabetes

Diabetes, especially when uncontrolled, is a significant factor that increases the risk of kidney infection. High blood sugar levels weaken the immune system and create a suitable environment for bacterial growth. In addition, nerve damage may develop in diabetic patients, which can prevent the bladder from emptying completely, further increasing the risk of infection.

A Life Health Group Touch: It is important for diabetic patients to be more cautious about kidney infections and to have regular check-ups with a nephrology specialist. A Life Health Group offers a comprehensive approach to reduce the risk of kidney infection and prevent possible complications in diabetic patients.

Additional Information About Kidney Infection:

Kidney infection can affect people of all ages: Although it is more common in women, men and children can also develop kidney infections.
Untreated kidney infection can lead to serious complications: It may cause severe health problems such as kidney damage, kidney failure, or sepsis (blood poisoning).
Hygiene plays a key role in preventing kidney infection: Maintaining proper toilet hygiene, urinating after sexual intercourse, and drinking plenty of fluids help reduce the risk of infection.
Kidney infection can recur: Recurrent infections increase the risk of kidney damage and may require long-term treatment.

Protect Your Kidney Health with A Life Health Group

A Life Health Group is a healthcare institution specialized in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of kidney infections. Our experienced nephrology specialists aim to provide you with the best care using the latest technologies and treatment methods.

At A Life Health Group, we offer the following services to support kidney health:

Nephrology: Diagnosis and treatment of kidney infections, kidney stones, kidney failure, and other kidney diseases
Urology: Diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections, prostate diseases, and other urological conditions
Laboratory services: Kidney health evaluations such as urinalysis, urine culture, and blood tests
Imaging services: Kidney imaging with ultrasound, CT, and MRI
Diet and nutrition counseling: Nutrition plans that support kidney health
Education and consultation: Information and guidance on kidney health and disease prevention

At A Life Health Group, your kidney health is our priority. Our expert team is ready to provide you with the best care and help you live a healthy life.

Remember, taking care of your kidney health is essential for your overall well-being and quality of life.

Prepared by A Life Medical Editorial Board.

Last Updated: 6 Kasım 2025 14:05

Publish Date: 24 Nisan 2024 17:55